Changing jobs a smart way for Australians to boost salaries: SEEK

Aussie workers are missing out on higher pay packets because of simple mistakes. This is how you can boost your salary.

Aussie workers are sacrificing higher pay packets because they are too overwhelmed by the recruitment process to look for a better job.

Almost three in five workers find the thought of searching for a new role daunting, while more than half confess they have put off their job hunt because it’s too time consuming, research from recruiter SEEK reveals.

But procrastination could be hurting the hip pocket of many Australians, with higher-paid roles available to those prepared to look for them, says SEEK head of customer insights and strategy Aimee Hutton.

“Advertised salaries are growing faster than overall wages so changing roles can be an excellent way to unlock higher earning potential,” she says.

Back yourself

Lack of confidence plays a key role in putting off the hunt for a new job, with a third of Australians unsure about their ability to identify a role that suits their goals, the research shows. A quarter are also unclear on what prospective employers are looking for.

Hutton says it’s normal to feel hesitant when looking to switch jobs. She recommends workers reflect on what is important to them in their career, such as flexible work arrangements or a higher salary, and identify their passions, strengths and skills to find roles and organisations that align with these.

She also suggests breaking down the job search into small, manageable tasks to make the process feel less overwhelming.

“Celebrating the small victories, like updating your resume, securing an interview or receiving positive feedback from a recruiter or hiring manager is important, all of which can motivate you to persevere,” she says.

“Also, make sure to tap into your network of family and friends as well as a mentor, if you have one, to provide support and encouragement along the way.”

Open to opportunity

Workers should always remain open-minded when it comes to a new role and not limit their job search to times when they are unhappy in their current one, Career Confident director Helen Green says.

“Waiting until the timing is perfect or their dream job appears can be counter-productive and result in regret and missed opportunity – especially with cost-of-living pressures,” she says.

“People should make the most of the opportunity, particularly in sectors where vacancies have been higher than in recent years.

“Now is a terrific time to secure a promotion, build on professional skills, try something new or launch your own business.”

Green says it’s important for job seekers to remember they don’t have to meet all the key selection criteria in a job advertisement to be successful.

She also recommends workers use their networks to their advantage, noting many jobs openings are not advertised.

“I advise clients to start by knowing their skills and where they add value,” she says.

“They should take time to familiarise themselves with job search platforms, update their CV so they are ready and get support with the process if they need it.

“There are excellent online resources available to help people target their job search and prepare for interviews (or) get professional support if needed.

“Think of it as an investment in your future and be open to opportunities.”

Andy Collingwood wishes he had switched jobs earlier than he did.

Ticks the boxes

For years, Andy Collingwood procrastinated on his decision to give up teaching English to international students and pursue his dream of becoming a social worker.

But Covid, and the subsequent decline in overseas students coming to Australia, was the “final push” he needed to make the career change – combining part-time work with postgraduate study to give him the skills he needed.

“I just got to the point where I wanted a career that was more than just a job,” Collingwood says.

“Social work aligns with my values. One of the things that’s important to me in my work is having variety and each day being different and social work ticks all those boxes.”

Collingwood now has a role where he works with refugees and asylum seekers, including those who have experienced trauma and torture. He wishes he had switched jobs much earlier and is excited for future career opportunities.

“Most ESL teachers are hired on casual contracts so there’s no potential for growth and you are limited in how much you can make,” he says.

“(Changing to a career in) social work is definitely worth it, financially.

“The amount of training I can do (in this sector) is huge and I’m learning more every day.”

Finding the right job

SEEK’s Aimee Hutton provides the following tips to make the job search easier:

1. Explore possible career options: Speak to family, friends and co-workers and use online tools like SEEK Career Advice to explore careers that match your strengths and passions and learn about the opportunities available.

2. Make the most of filters: Narrow your online job search results by using filters that match your experience, skills, salary and location needs.

3. Stand out with online profiles: Professional profiles are vital tools to find your next role – or let an opportunity come to you.

4. Be targeted, don’t ‘spray and pray’: While it can be tempting to apply for lots of jobs and hope for the best, it’s not always the best approach. Invest your time in making your job search is focused and targeted.

Originally published as Changing jobs a smart way for Australians to boost salaries: SEEK